Sarokeys BCP vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to consider the unique characteristics of each option. The Sarokeys BCP offers a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy linear switches. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry provides a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, perfect for tactile switch enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
51g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sarokeys BCP uses a nylon top housing, which provides a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM top housing, offering a unique and pleasing sound profile with deeper tones that are relatively more muted. While both housing materials aim to enhance the typing experience by influencing the sound produced, they differ in the specific characteristics they bring to the table.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry utilize different materials. The BCP's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, mirroring the effects of the nylon top housing. Meanwhile, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing complements its POM top housing by creating a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. These bottom housings have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Sarokeys BCP and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry ultimately boils down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, the BCP's use of nylon housing material may provide a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Blueberry's POM housing, which offers a more unique and pleasing sound. However, the bottom housings of both switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 51 grams compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have a similar medium-light bottom out force with the BCP at 57 grams and the Blueberry at 80 grams. The lighter actuation force of the BCP makes it more ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming use, while the heavier actuation force of the Blueberry provides a more solid and substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The BCP offers a quicker and more responsive typing experience, which can be ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch provides a deeper and more satisfying key press due to its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique typing experiences tailored to different preferences, with the shorter travel distance of the BCP catering to those wanting a quicker response, and the longer travel distance of the Blueberry appealing to those seeking a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys BCP has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.85.
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP switch is characterized by its signature clacky profile, creating a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a lower-pitched and resonant sound, providing a bass-heavy and immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the BCP switch delivering a satisfyingly clacky sound and the Blueberry switch offering a deeper and resonant tone.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback with a smooth and buttery sensation. On the contrary, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a snappy and invigorating typing feel, with super responsive feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. While the BCP switch provides a more elastic and creamy typing experience, the Blueberry switch offers a lively and invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy response.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the BCP switch is characterized by its clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel, the Blueberry switch boasts a low-pitched, resonant sound and a snappy, invigorating typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, with the BCP switch providing a more classic clacky sound and creamy feel, while the Blueberry switch offers a deeper, resonant sound and an invigorating typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect different but equally satisfying results based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it really comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy and creamy typing feel with a clacky sound profile, then the Sarokeys BCP switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and appreciate a sharp tactile bump with a lower-pitched and resonant sound profile, then the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Consider the feel and sound characteristics that align with your typing style and choose the switch that best fits your needs. Remember, the ultimate goal is to find a switch that enhances your typing experience and brings you joy every time you use your keyboard.
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